An unlicensed real estate agent was brought undone when she stopped doing this for her clients

A Perth woman, Phillipa Ann Ives, was recently found guilty in the Joondalup Magistrates Court for falsely presenting herself as a real estate agent and handling financial transactions on behalf of clients. She has been ordered to pay a sum exceeding $11,320 in fines and costs.

The court determined that Ives unlawfully operated as a real estate agent without the requisite qualifications. Despite her plea of not guilty, she was convicted of falsely representing herself as a real estate agent, lacking the necessary license and certificate.

Consumer Protection initiated an investigation following a complaint regarding property management in Butler, a suburb in Perth’s north. It was discovered that between April and December 2021, Ives breached the Real Estate and Business Agents Act.

During this period, Ives entered into a verbal property management agreement, collected $24,000 in bond and rent from tenants, and deposited the funds into her personal bank account. She then paid herself a weekly management fee and rental income to the property owner. However, she ceased payments to the owner after a few months and failed to refund the bond to the tenants or owner at the end of the tenancy.

In sentencing, Magistrate Raelene Johnston emphasized the necessity for deterrence within the real estate industry. Ives’ misrepresentation undermined professional standards and consumer trust.

Trish Blake, the Consumer Protection commissioner, emphasized the importance of the licensing system in safeguarding tenants and landlords. She condemned Ives’ actions, noting her extensive experience in the industry, and urged consumers to engage only with licensed professionals to avoid financial risks and legal pitfalls. Blake urged tenants and landlords to report any suspicions regarding the licensing status of agents or property managers they engage with.